BMW's 'new' for 2012 S1000RR looks remarkably similar to the original model. Tweaks, not big changes are the order of the day for a bike that shoved a huge spanner in the Superbike works when it first arrived on the scene.

Performance Changes

The S1000RR's engine capacity, bore and stroke, power output, torque and compression ratio all remain exactly the same. So what has changed? The rear sprocket is given an extra tooth, from 44 up to 45, to aid acceleration.The air-intake through the headstock has been revised to increase the surface area by 20%. The throttle action is quicker, now requiring 11% less travel.

Chassis Changes

The new model has a shorter wheelbase, down from 1432mm to 1422.7mm. The steering head angle changes from 24 degrees to 23.9 degrees, while trail is increased by 2.6mm. A mid-speed damping valve has been added to the front forks and internals have been revised with the aim of improving front-end feedback. The rear shock features a new spring and a wider range of adjustment. The swingarm pivot is located 4mm higher in the chassis a move designed to improve suspension feel. The bars are set wider and the reach to them is slightly greater, for more leverage than before.

Electronics Changes

The Rain power mode has been revised, from a rather meagre (joke!) 152bhp to 163bhp. The main changes are to the traction control and 'combustion control'. The Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) was a popular optional extra on the original model, with over 98% of customers opting for it. BMW have revised the system, refining it, making its intervention less obvious. The 'combustion control' is used in Slick mode and is designed to help corner entry by 'opening' the throttle a minute amount to maintain the perfect amount of engine braking.

Cosmetic Changes

Again, the new model features small tweaks, with a revised and smaller tail unit and the addition of tiny 'winglets' located on the side of the nose fairing. The obvious cosmetic changes are the colours, with the new Red/White and Light Blue schemes.

Price Changes

BMW haven't helped themselves with the price change. The original model weighed in at £10,950, but let's say that's £11,000. The 2012 model is £12,295 but VAT has increased from 15% to 20% since the original model's introduction and that increase alone is around £500, meaning BMW have 'only' added around £800 for the revisions. Still, that's something many will find hard to stomach.

In Summary

The changes are all small but numerous enough to add up with BMW addressing the suspension, power delivery and traction control - areas that came under close scrutiny in group tests. In short, BMW haven't messed with the formula for what made the original S1000RR good, instead they've refined it to make it better.